As we went through the process of articulating our values, we developed explanations for why we chose the words in our values and the meaning we hope to convey.
Connection
At Foothills, we believe in the importance of relationships. Together, students, educators, and families build on a foundation of trust that is central to student and family life at school. We know interconnectedness and a sense of belonging facilitates greater learning and knowledge sharing, increases engagement, and spurs innovation. Within our vibrant ecosystem, we foster a culture of connection where one is valued, seen, heard, and appreciated and reciprocates those feelings towards others. Through connection, we develop a responsibility toward our greater community, knowing that we rise by lifting others.
In practice, connection looks like:
-Deep conversation, checking in with others
-Expressing appreciation
-Trust
-Building relationships
-Celebrating each other’s unique strengths, differences, and gifts
-Feeling valued, seen, heard, and appreciated, and reciprocating those feelings toward others
-A sense of responsibility to the community
Compassion
Empathy, curiosity, and thoughtful action are essential to learning that creates space to explore the world with an open mind, seeking to understand deeply. Students acquire the tools to recognize injustice, strive for equity, and understand that everyone has value. Foothills community members carry themselves with care and kindness, modeling the many ways in which compassion can exist - for others and ourselves.
In practice, compassion looks like:
-Taking action based on empathy and knowledge
-Carrying oneself with care and kindness, for others and for oneself
-Exploring the world with an open mind and curiosity
-Active listening
-Forgiveness
-Non-judgmental attitude
-Offering support
Integrity
Through the practices of conflict resolution, repair, and forgiveness, every individual at Foothills contributes to building an environment of mutual respect and trust. Students learn what it means to act ethically and honestly, taking responsibility for themselves, and holding others accountable, within the safe walls of the school.
In practice, integrity looks like:
-Being honest and trustworthy
-Being truthful and transparent in all situations
-Taking responsibility for actions, acknowledging mistakes, and working to improve
-Understanding the importance of accountability and the consequences of actions
-Showing respect for people
-Taking pride in work and working hard to reach goals
-Expressing gratitude when someone helps
-Following the ethical standards and policies
-Talking to people instead of about people
Authenticity
At Foothills we believe every person is worthy of dignity and respect and that their potential and uniqueness should be affirmed and celebrated. Foothills learners understand themselves as individuals, academics, creators, and collaborators. They are encouraged to follow their passions, develop their strengths, and tackle challenges as they learn and grow.
In practice, authenticity looks like:
-Candor, honesty
-Being one’s full self
-Keeping to one’s values
-Originality in speech, dress, and action
-Giving sincere compliments and feedback
-Standing up for what you believe in, even if it's not popular
Agency
Having voice, and choice in one’s experience is a cornerstone of a Foothills education. Students are encouraged to speak up, ask questions, take risks, challenge assumptions, and engage with concepts that feel important and relevant to them. Teachers have agency in designing learning experiences and the ways in which they support students. Families work in partnership with the school to ensure their child is supported in all aspects of their educational journey, sharing their own unique perspectives on what success looks like for their child.
In practice, agency looks like:
-Using one’s voice, making choices
-Speaking up, asking questions, challenging assumptions
-Advocating for oneself
-Creating experiences (e.g., learning, community)
-Setting goals
-Demonstrating responsibility
-Self-efficacy